60 Lawmakers Advocate change from Presidential to Parliamentary System of Government.
Approximately 60 members of the House of Representatives are actively pursuing amendments to the 1999 Constitution, aiming to shift from the existing presidential system to a parliamentary system of government.
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Led by Lagos State Representative Wale Raji of the All Progressives Congress, the lawmakers cited the need to reduce the cost of government and facilitate robust policy debates as key reasons for advocating a return to the parliamentary system.
Titled ‘The Bills Proposing Constitutional Alterations for a Transition to Parliamentary System of Government,’ the legislation was sponsored by the House Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, and 59 others. It was read for the first time during Wednesday’s plenary session in Abuja.
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The lawmakers, representing various party affiliations, emphasized the importance of adopting a parliamentary system at the federal, state, and local government levels. Speaking at a press conference at the National Assembly Complex, spokesperson Abdulssamad Dasuki stated that the proposed change would significantly impact the national political landscape.
Dasuki said, “Our founders, in their wisdom, adopted the parliamentary system of government during the First Republic. For six years, it worked for the country.”
Highlighting the imperfections of the presidential system, the lawmakers expressed concerns about the high cost of governance, excessive powers vested in the executive, and the limitations it imposes on the nation’s development progress.
The bills presented seek a return to the accountable, responsible, and responsive governance system of the First Republic, addressing issues related to the presidential system.
The lawmakers intend to initiate a national conversation, ensuring robust public debates, stakeholder consultations, and expert analyses to inform the decision-making process. They also aim to raise awareness about the proposed constitutional alterations and encourage constructive dialogue on potential implications.
Benefits of Parliamentary System of Government
Under the parliamentary system, the President would be replaced with a Prime Minister as the Head of Government, with the President serving as a ceremonial leader. Elective offices would be chosen from elected members of the legislature.
The proposed changes include shifting the process of electing governors and chairpersons of local governments from general elections to voting within their respective legislative bodies. This adjustment aims to streamline the administration, potentially reducing bureaucratic hurdles and fostering closer collaboration between the executive and legislative branches.
Dasuki emphasized that a streamlined executive branch could lead to a smaller central government, reducing salaries and administrative expenses. Shifting the election process could also save significant campaign costs.
In conclusion, the lawmakers asserted that their commitment to constitutional alteration prioritizes national interest, and they hope the ensuing national conversation leads to a more effective system of government for the nation.
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